A Halifax centre to help intoxicated people is ready to go. But no one will rent to them

The search for a home for a new Halifax centre for people who are intoxicated continues, despite being ready to go. The stabilization centre, previously known as a sobering centre, is a joint initiative funded by the Halifax municipality and the provincial government. It aims to provide individuals under the influence of drugs or alcohol with a safe space to go to instead of being held in a police cell.

Municipal staff have identified a service provider to operate the centre but have been unable to secure a location after months of searching. Amy Siciliano, Halifax’s public safety adviser, revealed that over 50 potential sites have been considered, with around a dozen visited in person. However, every promising option has fallen through, including one just this week.

Siciliano highlighted the stigma associated with individuals who use substances or are experiencing homelessness as a significant barrier to establishing the centre. Despite this, Halifax council approved funding for the pilot in November 2022 as part of the city’s public safety strategy for 2023-26. The strategy emphasizes the need for such centres to provide a more appropriate response to intoxicated individuals, alleviating pressure on hospitals and first responders.

The planned opening of the centre was initially slated for 2024, with the capacity to accommodate at least 10 individuals at a time. The annual cost of approximately $980,000 will be split equally between Halifax and the province. The service provider chosen to run the centre has a proven track record in the field and operates similar facilities in other communities.

Staff at the centre will receive comprehensive training in first aid, mental health first aid, trauma-informed intervention, and de-escalation techniques. Additionally, the Mobile Outreach Street Health team will collaborate with the centre to provide basic primary care services to its occupants.

Due to the lack of suitable municipal or provincial properties, the search for a location has shifted to the private market. Siciliano expressed confidence in managing any potential issues that may arise once the centre is operational.

The establishment of this stabilization centre has been a long-standing need advocated for by doctors, advocates, and families of individuals who have tragically passed away while in custody due to intoxication. The centre aims to provide a much-needed resource for vulnerable individuals in Halifax, offering a safe and supportive environment for those in need.